Why Jazz Studies - Butler University

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Why Jazz Studies
at Butler University?
Butler University is located in the heart of one of America’s great jazz
cities—Indianapolis. Our city has produced some of the greatest jazz
musicians in the world (Wes Montgomery, J.J. Johnson, and
Freddie Hubbard) and countless others who have been recognized for
their brilliance in the field. To a great extent, the city of Indianapolis
is our “campus” and its master jazz musicians our “professors.”
Students in our program receive high-quality ensemble experiences and
numerous performing opportunities. Our jazz ensembles and jazz combos
provide opportunities for students to hone their skills in both traditional
and modern repertoire, as well as improvisation. Contact with worldrenowned guest artists is a regular occurrence at Butler. Recent artists
include Bobby McFerrin, Joshua Redman, Fred Sturm, Ted Poor, Melvin
Rhyne, Robert Baca, the Wee Trio, Frank Smith, Mark O’Connor, and
Donny McCaslin.
Our jazz faculty consists of nationally renowned performers, scholars, and
educators. Students in the jazz area have extensive contact with professors
in private lessons and classes with favorable teacher-to-student ratios.
Curriculum
Butler University’s BM in Jazz Studies offers a dynamic curriculum that
is representative of the needs of today’s freelance jazz musicians. The
degree combines a strong foundation in classical studies with coursework
including:
• Improvisation
• Jazz Theory, History, and Arranging
• Applied Jazz Lessons
• Entrepreneurship and Career Development
Students in our program also enjoy performance opportunities in large
jazz ensembles and combos.
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Jazz Studies Faculty
Matt Pivec, Director of Jazz Studies; Saxophone and Jazz Ensembles
Gary Walters, Jazz Piano and Jazz Combos
Sandy Williams, Jazz Guitar
Jesse Wittman, Jazz Bass
Jon Crabiel, Percussion
Jared Rodin, Trombone
Allen Miller, Trumpet
Steve Allee, Visiting Guest Artist
Kenny Phelps, Visiting Guest Artist
Contact
Dr. Matt Pivec
Director of Jazz Studies
317-940-9068
mpivec@butler.edu
Music &
Double Major.
Meet Brandon
Douthitt.
“My career goal is to be a professional jazz saxophonist. The music faculty at Butler have been
instrumental in helping me develop my craft,
while the curriculum has given me the flexibility
to pursue a double major in Recording Industry
Studies. The individualized attention and guidance I’ve received at Butler has helped me achieve
www.butler.edu/music
excellence in everything I do.”